A bourbon blend is made by combining bourbons from more than one barrel, and often from more than one batch, so the finished whiskey tastes the same from bottle to bottle. Blending lets a producer balance sweetness, spice and oak instead of relying on the character of a single barrel.
Whether you are building a home bar, shopping for a gift or looking for an everyday sipper, knowing how a bourbon blend is made makes it easier to pick a bottle you will enjoy.
Bourbon at a glance
At least 51% corn in the grain mix
Aged in new, charred oak containers
Bottled at 80 proof or higher
Made in the United States
How a Bourbon Blend Is Crafted
Master blenders taste barrels from across a warehouse and decide which ones belong together. Each choice shapes the final bourbon blend.
Mash bill
Corn-heavy recipes lean sweet, rye adds spice and wheat softens the finish.
Age
Older barrels add depth and oak, while younger barrels add brightness and grain character.
Barrel char and position
How deeply a barrel is charred and where it rests affect the vanilla, caramel and smoke notes.
Proof
Bottling strength changes the body and the heat of the finished whiskey.
Bourbon Blend Flavor Profiles
Most bourbon blends fall into a few broad styles. Use them as a starting point when you shop.
Sweet and smooth
Corn-forward blends with notes of vanilla, caramel and toasted oak. They are easy to sip neat and a natural fit for an Old Fashioned.
Spicy and bold
Rye-forward blends with pepper, cinnamon and a drier finish. They stand up well in a Manhattan or over ice.
Rich and oaky
Longer-aged blends with dark fruit, leather and baking spice, best enjoyed slowly and neat.
Bourbon Blend vs. Single Barrel Bourbon
A single barrel bourbon shows the personality of one barrel, so every bottle can taste a little different. A bourbon blend aims for balance and repeatability. Neither is better. If you want something more individual, browse our barrel picks.
Bourbon blend
Balanced flavor that stays consistent
Easier to find the same bottle again
A dependable choice for sipping and cocktails
Single barrel bourbon
Shows the character of one barrel
Each bottle can taste a little different
Rewards curiosity and collecting
How to Choose the Right Bourbon Blend
For sipping neat
Look for a smooth, well-aged blend with caramel and vanilla notes.
For cocktails
Choose a bold, spicy bourbon blend that keeps its flavor with ice and mixers.
For gifting
Pick a bottle with a story and consider custom engraving to make it personal.
For building a collection
Compare a few styles side by side to find your favorite.
Shop Bourbon Blend Whiskey at Bourbon Blend Masters